LANAP – Laser Gum Treatment

Treating periodontal disease with LANAP in Richmond VA

Dr. Rodrigues offers the latest technology available for periodontal therapy: LANAP (laser assisted new attachment procedure). There are numerous advantages to using laser therapy as opposed to the traditional methods requiring a scalpel and sutures. Like LASIK surgery for the eyes, our laser is able to treat periodontal disease using a minimally invasive approach.

The LANAP protocol is the only laser gum disease treatment FDA-cleared for True Regeneration. Simply put, the LANAP protocol can re-grow the tissues and bone lost to gum disease. Compared to traditional osseous surgery, patients say the LANAP protocol is:

Less painful

Less post-op sensitivity

Less gum loss (gum recession)

Very little downtime after treatment

LANAP PROTOCOL EXPLAINED

Gently and effectively clear away the bacteria causing gum disease with laser energy. A laser fiber the width of three human hairs as it targets disease but leaves healthy tissue intact.

LANAP = Laser Assisted Regeneration (LAR)

An FDA-cleared laser treatment called the LANAP protocol offers a less painful, more successful treatment alternative to conventional surgery. LANAP=LAR is the only scientifically, research proven methodology that results in true periodontal regeneration, new bone growth, and gum tissue reattachment. LANAP and LAR are accomplished with the PerioLase MVP-7. It is a free-running, variable pulsed Nd: YAG laser. The 7 variable pulse durations can be thought of as “different lasers” in one device as they have discrete and discriminating tissue interactions. The LANAP=LAR treatment is one of the most successful protocols in treating gum disease because it can target the source of the inflammation without hurting or be removing any healthy gum tissue, slow or stop attachment loss and decrease pocket depth, and allow the body to recover from the chronic infection without the need for scalpel or sutures.

For patients who are concerned about conventional blade surgery to treat periodontal disease, the new laser treatment can be a life-changing event. Patients are able to preserve their natural teeth, enhance their smile, and avoid the potentially life-threatening systemic effects of untreated periodontal disease.

There is still no absolute “cure” for periodontal disease. Conventional flap/osseous surgery is always offered as an option to our patients, and in some cases it will still be the best option.

Gum disease and related health concerns

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should schedule a check-up as soon as possible as gum disease can be related to a number of serious health issues, including:

Faster HealingLANAP® is a minimally invasive procedure that allows the body to heal itself quickly

Less DiscomfortDue to the bio stimulation capabilities of the Periolase there is usually little to no discomfort for our patients. It is very rare to prescribe pain medication post op LANAP®.

Less DowntimeMost patients that opt for laser gum surgery can go straight back to their daily activities the same day!

Little to No RecessionPatients travel from across the state to have laser surgery because it does not lower the level of the gum line like traditional surgery.

Reduce Inflammation and BleedingThe PerioLase® MVP-7™can remove 90% of the inflammation in your mouth after one visit. The laser specifically targets the bacteria in your mouth while leaving the healthy tissue intact.

Minimal BleedingWith the LANAP® Protocol we are able to control the bleeding with the laser. This results in less bleeding and complications.

Saves Teeth!Patient’s number one reason to receive treatment is because they want to save and keep their natural teeth.

Bone RegenerationLANAP® is the only protocol scientifically proven to regenerate bone around teeth.

Very SafeThere are zero contraindications with this laser meaning it does not interfere with any disease or medication.

WHAT TO EXPECT

During Treatment

LANAP periodontal surgery is a full-mouth procedure usually completed in two, 2-hour visits. Splinting of loose teeth may occur during this visit if necessary. One side of the mouth is completed during the first visit, and a week later the other side is then completed at the second visit. It is very common for patients to quickly resume normal activities or return to work.

The First Few Days

LANAP is a surgical procedure, so your body will adjust depending on your individual pain tolerance. The first few days following the surgery you may experience mild soreness of the treated areas- generally alleviated with Ibuprofen. The gum tissues around the teeth may appear slightly discolored. Splints may be fabricated to stabilize and immobilize the teeth. It is important that you wear these splints as instructed to promote healing. Expect to have your bite adjusted during visits several times over the coming months; this is very important for healing.

Do not brush or floss for the first 7-10 days after treatment.

Follow a soft diet as recommended by your treating dentist.

Do not smoke. Smoking interferes with the healing process by impairing the body’s defense mechanisms.